Piano lessons for adults is generally LOTS more fun than it is for kids, primarily because the only adults that play piano are people who really want to, which is certainly not true of most kids that take piano lessons because their parents want them to.

But that's not the only reason by a long shot.

Adults in record numbers are signing up for piano lessons all around the world, for a variety of reasons, including:

* Because of the internet, adults have become aware that piano lessons don't have to happen in a music studio or store, so they are not locked into a schedule of showing up for a lesson every Tuesday at 4. Now they can choose their own time and schedule and learn at their own pace via lessons available on the internet.

*Adults have become aware that traditional methods of learning by reading music and practicing scales is not the only way to learn to play the piano. They have become aware that learning chords and chording techniques is a viable option.

*Chord-based piano learning methods are excellent for beginning adults, since they can quickly learn enough to make their songs sound good in a reasonably short time. It doesn't take years of intense practice to be able to play a familiar tune in the right hand while chording in the left hand.

*Many adults have found that by learning chords, they can come through the "backdoor" of piano playing. They learn to play chord-style quickly, and enjoy it so much that they are then motivated to learn to read music and go on to master traditional sight-reading.

*In addition to the musical benefits, professional people have discovered that piano playing is one of the most relaxing things they can do after work. It allows them to get their minds off the activities of the day and just focus on the pleasure of making their own music.

*Some have even taken it a step further and become proficient enough to play at social events and parties. Just being able to play "Happy Birthday" while everyone sings along is a real social advantage, and satisfying emotionally as well.

*Other adults use their new-found piano playing skills to play in their churches or on worship teams, or just to accompany themselves as they sing.

*Piano playing adults can create their own music in their own way - they can "do their own thing" in music. They can create moods ranging from joy to silliness to sadness to patriotism to whatever matches the need of the hour.

*And last but certainly not least, chord piano lessons taken over the internet or in home by way of DVD's and CD's are much less expensive than traditional lessons, and can be replayed over and over as necessary.

Whatever the reason, adults in increasing numbers are doing what they thought they would never do - they are willingly taking piano lessons, knowing the benefits are many and wonderful.

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